ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam Related

Review ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a postoperative client who has a chest tube connected to suction and a water-seal drainage system. Which of the following indicates to the nurse that the chest tube is functioning properly?

  • A. Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber
  • B. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber
  • C. Absence of bubbling in the water seal chamber
  • D. No drainage in the collection chamber
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Fluctuation (tidaling) in the water-seal chamber during inspiration and expiration indicates the chest tube is functioning properly.